Diocese: Coach fired over ‘video clips’

September 20, 2012

The Fort Wayne-South Bend Diocese of the Roman Catholic Church released a statement on Wednesday in which it confirms that Bishop Luers head football coach Matt Lindsay was dismissed from that position earlier this week after "a large number of inappropriate video clips, none involving nudity, were discovered" on the coach's computer.
According to the statement, diocese officials first learned of the video clips on September 12. The following day Lindsay was placed on administrative leave by the principal at Bishop Luers, Mary Keefer. An internal investigation was immediately conducted by diocesan and school officials and that investigation resulted in the termination of Lindsay’s employment on September 16.
"We do not know if the actions of Mr. Lindsay constitute a criminal offense," the statement said. "That is for the police to investigate and for law enforcement officials to evaluate. According to our judgment (the school and the diocese), the apparent surreptitious taking of video clips of students and other persons of the type taken by Mr. Lindsay constituted a violation of our ethical standards and policies, and thus mandated the immediate dismissal of Mr. Lindsay. Further disclosures regarding the contents of the videos will be up to law enforcement officials."
Bishop Kevin C. Rhoades said, “I know that this matter has been the subject of much speculation in the media and in the community. Because of the concerns of all involved, we have tried to proceed carefully and honestly, though under intense public pressure. My primary concern is the welfare of our students, the community of Bishop Luers High School, and the integrity of our actions. This whole affair has caused turmoil for many people.
"I ask for your prayers for the Bishop Luers community and for all involved in this very sad affair," said Rhoades.